For years, the fireworks shows at Magic Kingdom have held a special place in the hearts of Disney fans. Whether it’s the dazzling displays lighting up the night sky or the emotional soundtracks that accompany them, these shows are a hallmark of the Disney experience. However, not every change to the iconic fireworks lineup has been met with open arms.
Disney Enchantment first replaced Happily Ever After as the Magic Kingdom fireworks show in 2021. The 50th Anniversary was a huge milestone for the park, and Disney Enchantment was introduced as a new show designed to capture the magic, imagination, and joy that Disney is known for.
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But while the show featured beloved Disney characters and iconic music, it quickly became clear that Disney Enchantment wasn’t quite hitting the same emotional chords as its predecessor. Fans were initially excited for something new, but many found that it didn’t quite honor the history of Walt Disney World the way Happily Ever After had.
With its focus primarily on Disney movies and characters, Enchantment felt more like a tribute to Disney films rather than an homage to the Magic Kingdom itself. Disney responded by making adjustments to the show, adding more footage of Walt and Roy Disney to bring the show back in line with the park’s legacy. These changes helped improve the overall reception, but for many, it was too little, too late.
As the 50th Anniversary drew to a close, Disney Enchantment was retired, and Happily Ever After returned to its spot as the permanent fireworks show at Magic Kingdom.
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However, Disney wasn’t done with Enchantment. In 2024, the show returned, not as a permanent fixture, but as part of the exclusive Disney After Hours events at Magic Kingdom. These special ticketed events, which are held in the evening hours, offer guests the chance to experience the park with fewer crowds, shorter lines, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
For those attending the After Hours events, the opportunity to see both Happily Ever After and Disney Enchantment on the same night became a unique experience. While the return of Disney Enchantment was a surprise to some, the quieter, more intimate setting of the After Hours event allowed the show to be experienced in a way that may have improved its overall reception.
Now, in 2026, Disney Enchantment will once again return as part of the Disney After Hours events, with select dates between January and July.
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Tickets for the After Hours events will range from $175 to $199 per person, depending on the date, and guests will be able to enter the park as early as 7 p.m., allowing them to catch Happily Ever After before the park closes and then enjoy Disney Enchantment during the exclusive event.
For those who enjoy seeing both shows in one evening, this is a great opportunity to experience two fireworks spectaculars in the same night. The event will also offer other perks, such as shorter wait times for attractions and complimentary snacks, like Mickey Premium Bars, popcorn, and bottled soda.
Are you excited for the return of Disney Enchantment? Do you think it will ever capture the same magic as Happily Ever After, or will it always be remembered as the controversial replacement? We want to know your thoughts—will you be attending the After Hours event to see the show in 2026? Share your opinions in the comments below!
